Introduction:
Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) was established in 1991 as an independent
organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Its
primary goal is to boost software exports from India. STPI serves as a one-stop solution
for software exporters, offering a range of services including statutory services, data
communications, incubation facilities, training, and additional value-added services.
STPI has been instrumental in promoting software exports, particularly focusing on
supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startup companies.
STPI Centres
At present, a total of 62 STPI centres/sub-centres are operational across the country, out of
which 54 centres are in Tier II and Tier III cities.
STPI is working closely with the respective State Governments/local authorities for creation of
more space, equipped with state-of–the-art infrastructure facilities, for development of the
software industry and increasing exports.
Services:
The main services rendered by STPI for the IT/ITES/ESDM industry are statutory services,
incubation facilities, data communications services which inter-alia are as under:
Statutory Services
STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) is responsible for implementing two
schemes: the Software Technology Park (STP) scheme and the Electronics
Hardware Technology Park (EHTP) scheme. These schemes are designed to
promote the IT/ITES (Information Technology/Information Technology Enabled
Services) industry.
The STP Scheme, in particular, has played a crucial role in the success of the
IT/ITES industry. It's a special program aimed at supporting software
companies, startups, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) without
restricting them to specific locations.
Incubation Services
STPI provides support to small businesses and entrepreneurs through its
incubation services. These services offer modern office spaces equipped with
the latest technology to help startups and small units get started quickly.
The "Plug-n-Play" facilities provided by STPI allow startups to begin operations swiftly
with minimal upfront costs, helping them to grow in a competitive market. Additionally,
startups under incubation receive special attention to foster their growth in research
and development, product development, and intellectual property rights generation.
STPI's incubation services include:
Ready-to-use office space with reliable internet connection at affordable rates.
Additional services such as phone, video conferencing/conference rooms, and
back-office support available on a pay-as-you-use basis.
Opportunities for startups to participate in events and receive promotion
through STPI's websites.
Access to tools, laboratories, mentoring, and marketing support where
available.
Datacom Services
One significant contribution of STPI to the software export industry is its
provision of High-Speed Data Communication (HSDC) services. STPI has
created a cutting-edge HSDC network named SoftNET specifically for software
exporters.
SoftNET allows local access to international gateways using advanced
microwave radio technology, which helps overcome connectivity issues in the
final stages of data transmission (known as the "last mile problem"). This setup
ensures that STPI can maintain a reliable uptime of over 99%.
Consultancy Services
STPI's expertise in specific fields, its technological abilities, and understanding
of various processes have enabled it to offer the following services:
Technology Consulting and Project Management: STPI provides advice and
management services on technology-related projects to both national and
international organizations.
Building Communication Network Infrastructure: STPI assists in creating
advanced communication network infrastructures, network management
systems, data centers, and network operation centers for state governments
and central government departments.
Operation and Maintenance Support: STPI offers support for maintaining and
operating networks, ranging from those used by businesses to those involved in
e-governance initiatives.
STPI Co-Location Services
As citizens increasingly expect online services and more automation projects
are initiated by governments and private organizations, the demand for data
centers is rapidly growing. To meet this demand, STPI is establishing advanced
Tier-III standard Data Centers at different locations across India.
These Data Centers will serve the needs of government agencies, public sector
units (PSUs), institutions, industries, and other organizations. Currently, STPI
operates five Tier-III Data Centers in Chennai, Vijayawada, Bhubaneshwar,
Bangalore, and Mohali. These centers have a total area of 47,962 square feet,
with a server farm area of 19,774 square feet, providing space for 579 racks to
accommodate businesses of various sizes.
Information Security Audit Service
Currently, STPI provides Information Security Audit Services to companies, ensuring that they
operate within a digitally secure environment. As a CERT-In empaneled organization, STPI offers
Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) services conducted by certified
professionals. These services help identify, assess, and mitigate risks arising from vulnerabilities
being exploited.
